Black Eyed Pea Soup

Black Eyed Pea Soup is one of those soul-warming dishes that really hits the spot, especially when the weather turns chilly. Imagine cozying up with a bowl of this delicious soup, its rich aroma filling your kitchen as it bubbles away on the stovetop. The marriage of smoky bacon, tender black eyed peas, and colorful vegetables creates a meal that’s not just filling, but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re celebrating New Year’s Day traditions or simply looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this soup offers an inviting experience that brings friends and family together. As you gather around the table, each spoonful delivers a taste of joy and warmth that can brighten any cold day. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

Black Eyed Pea Soup is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients with a flavorful broth, making it a perfect choice for cold days. The combination of smoky bacon, tender black eyed peas, and vibrant vegetables results in a deeply satisfying meal. This recipe honors the traditional Southern roots while being easy enough for any home cook to execute successfully.

Why You’ll Love This Black Eyed Pea Soup

You’ll adore this Black Eyed Pea Soup for its rich flavors and the joy it brings to your table. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that warms the heart and welcomes friends and family to gather. The soup is nutritious and filling, making it ideal for both everyday meals and festive occasions like New Year’s Day.

Ingredients

• ½ pound dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight
• 6 slices bacon
• ½ cup onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 14-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 ½ teaspoons sea salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
• 1 ½ teaspoons cumin
• 2 ½ teaspoons chili powder
• 2 cups kale, chopped

How to Make Black Eyed Pea Soup

Cook Bacon for Flavor

Start by sautéing the bacon in a large lidded pot over medium-high heat until crispy. The smell alone will get everyone excited! Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate and set aside, but you’ll want to reserve about one tablespoon of the drippings in the pot. Once the drippings cool, be sure to toss out any excess grease.

Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Next, add the chopped onion to the reserved bacon grease. Sauté for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. This step builds a fantastic foundation for your soup.

Combine Veggies and Bacon

Now, toss in those chopped carrots and celery. Keep sautéing for another 1-2 minutes until they release their wonderful flavors. Afterward, crumble the crispy bacon back into the mix, adding even more depth to your dish!

Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, soaked black eyed peas, sea salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. This is where the magic begins!

Bring to a Boil

Turn up the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Simmer the Soup

After that, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 1 hour. This slow cooking is key; it allows those flavors to blend beautifully, making every spoonful delightful.

Add Final Ingredients

Once the hour is up, lift the lid and crumble the cooked bacon back into the soup. Now, stir in the chopped kale, letting it soften as it blends with the soup. This adds a pop of color and a nutritious kick!

Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, take a moment to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Trust your palate!

Serve Hot

Finally, spoon your delicious Black Eyed Pea Soup into bowls and serve it hot, enjoying every comforting spoonful.

Serving Suggestions

This robust Black Eyed Pea Soup pairs beautifully with fresh cornbread, crusty bread, or a simple side salad. For an extra touch, you might want to add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for that burst of freshness.

Tips for Success

• Be sure to soak the black eyed peas overnight for optimal tenderness. This step really makes a difference!
• Adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you love heat, feel free to add more chili powder.
• For a vegetarian version, simply swap the bacon for smoked paprika and use vegetable broth instead.

Variations

• Consider adding diced potatoes or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
• If you want a different flavor profile, substitute smoked turkey or ham for the bacon.
• You can jazz it up with a splash of hot sauce or your favorite seasoning blend; get creative!

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Black Eyed Pea Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; just cool it completely before freezing. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go at a moment’s notice!

FAQ

Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dried?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use canned black eyed peas. Just remember to cut the cooking time by half.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! The ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for anyone with dietary restrictions.

How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. It’s just as delicious!

What can I serve alongside this soup?
Cornbread, biscuits, or a green salad pair perfectly with Black Eyed Pea Soup, enhancing the meal experience.

This Black Eyed Pea Soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. It brings people together, filling them with satisfaction and comfort on even the coldest days. The blend of ingredients fosters a rich flavor while providing nourishment to both body and soul. Enjoy this timeless recipe that bridges tradition and contemporary cooking with every hearty spoonful.

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